@vchan118: The Imperial Family Welcomes the New Year; Princess Aiko to Participate in Official Duties The Imperial Family welcomed the New Year on January 1st. Throughout this year, the Imperial Household will continue to seek opportunities for engagement with the public, while carefully monitoring the status of the COVID-19 pandemic. Princess Aiko, the eldest daughter of the Emperor and Empress, turned 20 last December and is now beginning her journey as an adult member of the Imperial Family.